How to Find the Perfect Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Size for a Comfortable Fit

How to Find the Perfect Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Size for a Comfortable Fit

Measure Chest Size for Proper Shoulder Pad Fit

When sizing lacrosse shoulder pads, the first step is to accurately measure your chest circumference right under the armpits. Compare this measurement to sizing charts from pad manufacturers to determine the appropriate size range. Keep in mind that different brands may vary in their sizing, so be sure to consult each chart.

Try on the shoulder pads before purchase and move your arms in a full range of motion. The pads should feel snug but not restrict mobility. Opt for adjustable straps and velcro closures to dial in the perfect custom fit. Wider or “squared” shoulder pad designs offer more protection, while narrow or contoured pads provide greater freedom of movement. Focus protective padding on high-impact zones like the shoulders, chest, ribs and spine.

To prevent injury and maximize performance, lacrosse shoulder pads must fit properly. Taking accurate chest measurements, comparing sizing charts, and trying on different brands ensures you find the ideal shoulder pads for comfort, protection and full range of arm motion on the field.

Consider Height and Weight When Selecting Size

In addition to measuring chest size, it’s important to factor in height and weight when selecting lacrosse shoulder pads. Those on the shorter or lighter end of the size chart may want to size down for a more secure fit. Taller or heavier players may need to size up to ensure full protective coverage and mobility.

Try on different sizes of the same shoulder pad model to determine the best fit based on your individual body type. Move your arms and run in the pads to test the fit when simulating game movements. The pad should not slide around or leave gaps during dynamic motion. Opt for a snugger fit if unsure between sizes.

While measuring chest circumference provides a starting point for sizing, ultimately the right lacrosse shoulder pad fit depends on your unique height and weight. Trying on different sizes and assessing fit during movement will help dial in pads tailored to your body’s proportions.

Properly fitted lacrosse shoulder pads allow you to play at your highest level, with full protective coverage and unrestricted mobility to take on any opponent. Consider all aspects of fit for your body type before purchase.

Compare Sizing Charts from Different Brands

It’s important to note that lacrosse shoulder pad sizing can vary between brands. A medium in one brand may fit differently than a medium in another. Always consult the sizing chart for each specific manufacturer.

Print out or have the sizing charts handy when shopping for pads. Compare your measurements across the different brand charts to get an idea of what size will be best. If you fall between sizes, err on the side of going smaller for a more secure fit.

Trying on different brand shoulder pads is ideal to find the optimal size and fit. Stores may not always carry every brand, however, so carefully analyzing the sizing charts is key. Some brands run large or small compared to others so check each chart when determining your shoulder pad size.

With multiple lacrosse shoulder pad brands on the market, each with their own sizing standards, consulting individual size charts is crucial to finding your ideal fit. Compare your measurements across different brand charts to identify variations and determine your best possible size.

Try On Pads and Test Range of Motion

Once you’ve identified your lacrosse shoulder pad size, it’s essential to try them on and assess the fit. Put on the pads and move your arms in a full range of overhead and cross-body motions. Lift your arms straight up, out to the sides, and behind your back. Twist at the torso while wearing the pads and run in place.

The shoulder pads should feel snug but allow complete mobility without any pulling or restriction. If the pads limit your arm movements or impede twisting motions, they are too small. Size up until you find the proper fit that provides protection without compromising agility.

Trying on lacrosse shoulder pads before purchasing is the best way to validate fit and flexibility. Simulate your full range of on-field movements with the pads on to determine optimal sizing for protection and mobility.

Lacrosse requires quick dodges, checks, and shots from all angles. Only by testing shoulder pads for uninhibited movement will you find the right size for peak performance.

Pads Should Allow Full Arm Mobility

When trying on lacrosse shoulder pads, it’s essential to test that you have complete freedom of movement with your arms. Properly fitted pads will feel snug but should not restrict your ability to move your arms in any direction.

Simulate dodging motions, checks, passing, and shooting while wearing the pads. Raise your arms straight overhead and out to the sides. Twist your torso and reach across your body. Move through the full range of on-field arm motions you utilize during gameplay.

The shoulder pads should move with your body without limiting mobility or flexibility. Opt for a larger size or adjustment if the pads impede movement during any of these arm motions.

Selecting the right lacrosse shoulder pad size means finding the ideal balance of protection and uninhibited mobility for your arms and torso. A proper fit empowers peak performance.

Don’t settle for lacrosse shoulder pads that hinder your athletic movements. The correct size allows you to play at the top of your game with full protective coverage and complete freedom of motion.

Select Adjustable Straps and Velcro Closures

When shopping for lacrosse shoulder pads, look for models with adjustable straps and velcro closures. These features allow you to customize the fit as needed for maximum comfort and protection.

Adjustable straps let you tighten or loosen the pads according to your body size and desired fit. This helps dial in the ideal snugness without restricting mobility. Velcro strap endings rather than buckles also enable more flexibility in sizing.

Velcro closures on the pads themselves provide additional points of adjustment for a truly custom fit. You can incrementally tighten or loosen the shoulder cap securing points and other areas.

Choosing lacrosse shoulder pads with straps and closures that adjust gives you the ability to tailor the sizing perfectly to your body. You get a secure, stable fit with full freedom of movement.

Don’t settle for pads that only come in set sizes. Look for adjustable lacrosse shoulder pads with straps and velcro so you can customize the fit for your needs.

Measure Shoulder Width and Compare

When fitting lacrosse shoulder pads, measuring your shoulder width provides another key data point for comparison. Use a soft measuring tape to determine the width across your shoulders from the point of one shoulder joint to the other.

Consult the sizing chart specifications of the shoulder pad models you’re considering. Compare your measured shoulder width to the listed dimensions for each size. This helps ensure proper coverage and avoidance of any gaps in protection.

Those with broader shoulders may need to size up in shoulder pad models that run narrow. Athletes with narrower shoulders can achieve a more secure fit by sizing down in wider or more squared pad designs.

Always cross-reference your direct shoulder measurements with listed size dimensions before purchase. This helps identify the optimal shoulder pad width for full protective coverage.

Don’t assume generic sizing will accommodate your shoulder width. Precisely measuring and comparing guarantees lacrosse shoulder pads that fit your shoulders properly.

Wider Pads Offer More Protection

When selecting lacrosse shoulder pads, wider “box” style pads typically provide more protection than narrower, contoured options. The increased surface area helps shield more of the shoulders, chest, and back from checks and collisions.

Look for shoulder pads with a squared design and robust padding over the sternum and spine for maximum protective coverage. While mobility may be slightly restricted, the extra padding cushions impacts and adds stability.

For more aggressive players who tend to play physically, the additional protection of wider shoulder pad models is ideal. The extra coverage reduces the jarring of big hits for a safer playing experience.

If your game relies more on speed and evasion rather than physicality, more streamlined and contoured pads may make sense. For maximum protection, however, wider lacrosse shoulder pads are the way to go.

Narrow Pads Allow Greater Mobility

Lacrosse players seeking maximum maneuverability may opt for more contoured, narrow shoulder pad designs. Though protective padding over vital areas is still essential, narrower shoulder caps provide less restriction.

Closer-fitting pads with smaller or removable bicep guards also increase arm mobility for quicker passes and shots. The streamlined feel sacrifices some stability and protection, but accelerates movements on fast breaks.

For midfielders and attackmen focused on speed and agility, narrow lacrosse shoulder pads offer that extra edge. Precise pad adjustments ensure padding remains properly positioned when making athletic moves at full speed.

Defenders who play a more physical game still need mobility for covering offensive players all over the field. Finding the right balance of protection and flexibility is key, but narrow pads optimize free movement.

Focus Padding on Key Contact Points

When selecting lacrosse shoulder pads, prioritize protection over key contact areas like the shoulders, chest, ribs, and spine. Padding over these zones should be thickest to absorb and dissipate the impact of checks.

Look for pads with high-density foam or removable pads over the sternum and along the ribs. Shoulder caps should completely cover the joint with sufficient cushioning material.

While total coverage is ideal, strategic padding placement over likely impact points provides efficient protection without excess bulk. Breathable padding materials are also important for comfort during intense gameplay in the heat.

Properly outfitted lacrosse shoulder pads offer peace of mind that the vulnerable zones of your upper body are defended against painful checks and collisions. Targeted padding placement provides comprehensive protection.

Don’t settle for lacrosse shoulder pads with skimpy padding over vital contact points. Seek out designs strategically equipped to protect your shoulders, chest, ribs and spine from injury.

Avoid Bulky Pads That Restrict Movement

When sizing lacrosse shoulder pads, be wary of selecting a size too large or bulky pads that severely limit mobility. Excessively thick padding over areas like the deltoids and biceps can inhibit arm movements.

Overly wide chest plates also restrict twisting and reaching motions by binding across the back and shoulders. Try simulated dodging and shooting movements when pads are on to assess if any range of motion is lost.

The ideal lacrosse shoulder pads offer vital impact protection without crossing the threshold into unwieldy. They should integrate seamlessly into your athletic motions. Avoid pads with features like overstuffed epaulets or extended rib guards if agility is compromised.

While protection is key, lacrosse demands speed and quickness. Keep shoulder pads streamlined by minimizing unnecessary bulk that weighs you down or hinders mobility.

Don’t let lacrosse shoulder pads slow you down. Carefully evaluate fit and freedom of movement when selecting pads to maximize protection without limiting your game.

Consider Combo Shoulder-Arm Pads for Youth

For young lacrosse players just starting out, combination shoulder and arm pad sets are a good option. The integrated design combines shoulder caps with built-in bicep and elbow pads for full upper body protection.

Youth combo pads feature lightweight padding over impact zones for protection without restricting mobility. Adjustable strapping also helps customize the fit as kids grow.

Arm guards that attach directly to the shoulder pads keep everything aligned while playing. This helps prevent painful pinches or gaps in coverage when gear shifts.

As lacrosse skills develop, transitioning to separate shoulder pads and arm guards provides more flexibility. But for entry-level play, integrated shoulder and arm pads are ideal.

For young athletes learning the game, combination lacrosse shoulder and arm pads provide complete, coordinated coverage as they build fundamental skills.

Determine Pad Firmness Preferences

When selecting lacrosse shoulder pads, consider your preferences for pad firmness and flexibility. Pads use varying densities of foam padding, with some designed for maximum protection and others optimized for mobility.

Test out models with thick, high-density foam padding for the most cushioning against checks. Thinner, low-density pads sacrifice some shock absorption but offer greater freedom of movement.

Try on different pad makes to assess the feel you prefer. Your playing style and position may also influence firmness needs. Goalies in the crease may opt for ultra-protective rigid padding, while midfielders need pads flexible enough for running and dodging.

Considering pad firmness along with size, coverage, and adjustability ensures you get lacrosse shoulder pads perfectly matched to your needs and playing personality.

Don’t settle for one-size-fits-all pad density. Experiment with different lacrosse shoulder pad firmness levels to find your ideal balance of protection and flexibility.

Replace Old and Damaged Pads

Don’t jeopardize your safety with old lacrosse shoulder pads whose shock absorbing capabilities have declined. Padding materials compress and break down over time. Straps may also become loose or damaged through years of use.

Inspect pads each season for signs of wear like flattened or cracked padding, loose stitching or frayed straps. If the shoulder caps feel less rigid or protective, it’s time to replace.

Look for updated technologies like segmented padding for better flex and movement. As lacrosse shoulder pads age, they lose effectiveness against impact forces.

While monetary costs come with new equipment, your health is priceless. Keep protection optimal by replacing lacrosse shoulder pads at the first signs of deterioration.

Trusting thinning, worn pads puts you at risk of painful bone bruises and injuries. Renew your protection each season with fresh lacrosse shoulder pads engineered for safety.

Ask Coaches and Experienced Players for Fitting Advice

If you’re new to lacrosse and unsure how shoulder pads should fit, don’t hesitate to ask coaches or experienced players for guidance. Those familiar with properly outfitting gear can watch you move in the pads and provide constructive feedback.

Coaches may spot issues like loose strapping or inadequate padding coverage that a beginner wouldn’t notice. Teammates who have dialed in their own equipment and understand the impacts of the sport can also lend expertise.

Consider asking an experienced player to join you when shoulder pad shopping. An outside perspective on fit and mobility from someone knowledgeable about the sport will prove invaluable.

Seeking advice from lacrosse insiders helps take the guesswork out of your first shoulder pad purchase. Tap into their wisdom to ensure ideal fit and protection.

As a beginner, don’t go it alone when buying new lacrosse gear. Lean on the experts to set yourself up for success on the field.